The computer recognizes the built-in commands (the commands that came with your speech software), and the names of each file in the Speakable Items folder on your hard disk.

Open the Speakable Items folder for me.

Note: Your computer only recognizes commands spoken in English.

Speakable items are divided into three types of commands:

•	Built-in commands are always available, and are listed in the Speakable Commands window. Open the Speakable Commands window for me.
•	Global commands (at the root level of the Speakable Items folder) can be spoken when any application is active.
•	Application-specific items (in the application folders) can be spoken when the application is active.

When you speak a built-in command or the name of a file in the Speakable Items folder, the computer acts as if you double-clicked the file's icon. For example, if you have a file named "My Resume" in the Speakable Items folder, you can open it by saying "My Resume."

To give a spoken command to the computer:

•	Position yourself in front of the microphone, press and hold the listening key (Esc is the default), and speak a command in a clear, normal voice.
	The computer displays what it heard in the Speakable Items feedback window. Then the computer responds to your command.
	To see an example, click the Play button below.

Tip: To see a list of currently available commands, speak the built-in command "Show me what to say."

If you have problems using spoken commands:
Check for possible solutions.

Related topic

Using spoken commands to work with your computer